Robotics Technicians
Description OES Code: None
Install, service, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair robots and automated production systems.

Wages, California
Entry-Level Hourly Wage $14.51
25th Percentile $16.57
50th Percentile $21.33
75th Percentile $26.77

Wages by California County
• OES Survey
• CCOIS Survey

Hours & Benefits
Most technicians work full time and may work varied day shifts. Many companies also employ technicians on swing shifts and overtime work may be required.

Most employers offer full fringe benefits including paid sick leave, vacation, retirement and medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans. Some employers also have profit sharing plans and tuition reimbursement plans.

Employment Trends by California County

Working Conditions
Technicians involved with testing and designing robots work mainly in well-equipped laboratories. Those involved in actual manufacturing operations or in repairing and maintaining robots may work in production locations varying from "hard hat" areas that are noisy, hot, and dirty to the sterile "clean room" environment in which the temperature, humidity and dust content of the air are carefully controlled. Since some robots are designed to perform jobs considered to be dangerous, technicians working on these robots must follow all prescribed safety measures.

Advancement
Robotics technicians who demonstrate leadership potential can advance to supervisor or team leader positions. Technicians also may be promoted to trainer positions within their company. Those who work for vendors can move up to technical trainer or sales representative. Many employers provide educational fee reimbursement and encourage their technicians to continue to take college classes and work toward a higher degree.

Getting the Job & Other Information
Those who graduate from electronic technician training programs at community colleges or trade schools may find work through the placement offices or by interviews with employers recruiting on their campuses. Trade journals and magazines list employers and job openings, and membership in a robotics professional society provides valuable networking opportunities. In addition, employers
frequently list their openings with the Job Service offices of the California Employment Development Department.

For a list of current job listings, browse CalJOBS or America's Job Bank.

Education and Training
Employers prefer to hire technicians who have completed a two-year electronics engineering technology program at a community college or trade school. Several California community colleges have these programs, and some include classes in robotics. High school students interested in entering the robotics field should prepare by taking classes in algebra, geometry, computer science, general science, and physics. Other important classes to take include drafting, electronics, and machine shop.

Skills & Other Requirements
The field of robotics demands many skills and talents. Those entering the field must have mechanical skills, eye-hand coordination, manual dexterity, the spatial ability to understand blueprints and diagrams, the capability to read and understand technical instructions, and analytical ability.

References
California Occupational Guide #552

Related Occupations: Mechanical Engineers, Electronics Repairers, Numerical Control Machine Operators

Training: California Training and Education Providers (CTEP)